A Classroom Without Walls: Designing Early Learning Environments that Reflect Mission and Mindset

Born from a deep belief that children learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences that connect them to the world, Episcopal Day School, introduced a Nature School. Inspired by research in early childhood education and the global movement toward nature-based learning, the program balances experiential learning with strong academic foundations and authentic engagement. Read more to discover how this idea became a reality and is a meaningful way to fulfill the school’s mission.

Cultivating Growth Through Clear and Courageous Conversations

School leaders and personnel desire meaningful feedback, yet providing feedback or facing potentially difficult or challenging conversations is a sticking point for many administrators. Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor and Radical Respect, shares her expertise and practical wisdom on how to have courageous conversations and offer meaningful feedback through the practice of Radical Candor. Then, three SAIS school leaders share how they have incorporated the Radical Candor framework into their own practice.

Reimagining the Employee Value Proposition: 8 Reflections for Building Sustainable School Communities

Designed to Last: Reimagining the Employee Value Proposition in Independent Schools examines how SAIS educators experience motivation, engagement, and meaning in their work. While educators report strong belonging and genuine friendships, this study uncovers critical structural vulnerabilities threatening workplace sustainability. The findings reveal eight essential reflections every school leader should consider for building healthier, more sustainable communities.

Unlocking Potential: Assistive Technology Foundations and Implementation

Every student deserves the tools they need to demonstrate what they know and can do. For the students in your community with language-based learning differences, executive function challenges, or other learning profiles, assistive technology is essential for equitable access to the curriculum. While many schools struggle to move beyond theoretical support for diverse learners, practical and effective implementation of assistive technology tools can make a difference.

Understand What Drives Your Teachers—and What Keeps Them at Your School

As evidenced by the results of the SAIS Motivation & Engagement research report released this month, it's important that schools gather feedback from their faculty about workplace culture, well-being, and the factors that shape their professional experience at your school. The SAIS Faculty Motivation and Engagement Survey is a comprehensive assessment that explores what drives motivation, engagement, and purpose in the workplace and how these factors influence your school's teacher satisfaction, retention, and career commitment. By listening directly to educators, your school can gain actionable insights to better support, develop, and retain faculty at all career stages.

Independent School Leadership Forum

June 22-24 | Charlotte, NC

The Independent School Leadership Forum is a dynamic conference designed specifically for mid-level leaders in independent schools—division leaders, deans, associate heads, department chairs, admissions and advancement professionals, inclusion & belonging practitioners, and other key administrators.

With four keynotes centered on leading self, leading team & others, leading community, and leading forward, this event provides a strategic space for professional growth. With learning journeys focused on the People Path, the Change Path, or the Systems Path, attendees will be equipped with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to lead with confidence and make an impact in their roles.

Upcoming Events

Leading Through Change: Strategies for Moving People and Culture Forward, February 17, 4:15 PM EST

Blueprint Sprint, March 16-17, Orlando, FL

Rethinking Assessments: Differentiation That Works, March 19, 12:00 PM EDT

Building Proactive Systems for Student Well-Being, March 24, 10:00 AM EDT

Surviving & Thriving in School Administration, June 15-17, Charlotte, NC

Small Schools Summit, June 24-26, Charlotte, NC

Institute for Heads, June28-July 1, Chattanooga, TN